Last updated on January 27, 2026

Book tattoos inspired by literature are such cool ways to celebrate a favourite novel, or a love of books in general. There are so many literary characters that have incredible tattoos to give you amazing ideas for your own book tattoos. There are also some fantastic book-themed tattoos that are thought-provoking and inspirational. We have rounded up some of the best literary tattoos inspired by books to admire.

Book Tattoos

Literary Characters With Tattoos

• Four from Divergent

• Travis from Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire

• Shadowhunters from Shadowhunter Chronicles by Cassandra Clare

• Count Olaf from A Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket

 

• Lisbeth from The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson

• QueeQueg from Moby Dick by Herman Melville

• Israel Hands Quote from Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson

 

• Henri Charrière from his autobiography, Papillon

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Books featuring Tattoos

• Inked by Eric Smith

• Ink is Thicker Than Water by Amy Spalding

• Tattoo by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

• Fingerprints of You by Kristen-Paige Madonia

• The Good Sister by Jamie Kain

• THE ELECTRIC MICHELANGELO BY SARAH HALL

  

• Easy by Tammara Webber

  

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  Book-Inspired Tattoos

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     A post shared by Wando Tatuagem (@wandotatuagem)

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     A post shared by 𝙰 𝚛 𝚒🌙 (@little.book.witch)

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     A post shared by Luckymonkeytattoo (@luckymonkeytattoo)

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     A post shared by Shaina Chavda (@shaina.chavda)

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     A post shared by JAY Shin (@jayshintattoo)

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     A post shared by Jennifer Niven (@jenniferniven)

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     A post shared by ✨Teryn ✨ (@teryn_books)

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     A post shared by @heather.lucinda_author

      

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     A post shared by 𝕷𝖆𝖉𝖞 𝕷𝖎𝖐𝖊 𝕴𝖓𝖐 (@ladylike.ink)

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  Book Tattoos

  Book tattoos are an awesome way to celebrate a love of reading and books. There are many different design ideas and the quotes that you can choose from are endless. If you are looking for more books that feature tattoos, our Pinterest Board for contains some great options. What are your favourite literary tattoo ideas and design styles?